Stabilization of mercury by sulphur concrete: Study of the durability of the materials obtained

Abstract

With the aim of looking for solution for the environmental concerns of mercury a process of stabilization /encapsulation was developed under the European LIFE Program. The process consists of the obtainment of stable sulfur-concrete matrix which allows the immobilization of mercury. The final product containing up to 30% of Hg exhibits excellent mechanical properties (compressive strength >56N.mm2 and flexural strength >8.5N.mm2) and extremely low permeability (coefficient of water absorption by capillarity 0.07g.cm-2). Physical properties as density, pore volume and porosity were also studied. The durability of these materials was analyzed in different aggressive environment, thus their behavior in alkaline medium, the ageing in salt mist environment and the resistance to freeze-thaw conditions were essayed. Any kind of degradation or deformation was observed after these tests.